REVIEW: Dirty Dancing at The Kings Theatre, Southsea

Sophia Benham

When your VHS tapes are worn out but your wildest dreams of ‘dirty dancing’ are relived on a cold autumn evening at the Kings Theatre, what more could you ask for?

In the role made famous by Patrick Swayze, Lewis Griffiths as Johnny gave an apt portrayal of the film’s icon, with his dulcet and sexy Texan tones, whilst revealing a torso just like the late actor’s.

Meanwhile Katie Hartland as Baby gave a performance that was somewhat ditzy and cleverly clumsy, giving a brilliant first impression.

The two main characters excelled in their roles.

Hey Baby and other tracks blasted out on the vinyl record player, reminiscent of the cult film, and at this point you would not be alone in practising your very own ‘spaghetti arms’ and toe-tapping in your chair.

The scenery was effortlessly smooth with many scenes giving a wonderful American backdrop as well as the amazing lighting that really created an atmosphere.

And the famous ‘lift’ in the water was just as magical as the original.

Then the one and only classic line from Johnny: ‘No one puts baby in the corner,’ was powerfully executed.

The stage cast delivered everything you wanted them to and more; this is definitely a show you don’t want to miss.